Customizable modular multi-function communication device

ABSTRACT

A configurable modular communication device is composed of an information delivery module and an information input module that are matable to each other. The information delivery module is a single base unit that can work with a touchscreen keypad or a number of modular keypad or other information input attachments. The information input module enables a user to change the look of the modular communication device according to personal taste and enhances its functionality to fit the exact occasion and mode of use. The information delivery module acts on its own as the navigation key and provides on its display screen menu (including an on-screen touch sensing keypad) user access to all functionality including telephone, PDA (personal digital assistant), camera, clock, GPS, and MP3 music player. User-controlled navigation takes place on or in the vicinity of the display screen, whether by hard or soft key actuation.

This application is a continuation of International Application No.PCT/US2009/030500, filed Jan. 8, 2009, which claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/020,299, filed Jan. 10, 2008; U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/047,711, filed Apr. 24, 2008; and U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/099,467, filed Sep. 23, 2008.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to mobile communication devices and, inparticular, to a modular, configurable, multi-function mobilecommunication device that can be fully customized to users' personaltastes and desired modes of use.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The increasing worldwide popularity of mobile or cellular telephones hastransformed the way people live and work, while reshaping the culturallandscape. The proliferation of thousands of models and styles of mobiletelephones has turned this one-time marvel of technology into acommodity product. Over 500 million sleek, colorful new mobile telephonesets are sold annually and used to send text and e-mail messages, browsethe World Wide Web, play video games, keep track of personalinformation, take photographs, and store and play music in manydifferent situations, modes, and capacities. The mobile telephone hasrapidly become the centerpoint of digital life, as well as a personalfashion statement.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Preferred embodiments pertain to a modular multi-functionalcommunication device that is customizable and configurable in aestheticappearance, operational function, or both, by selectable substitution ofmodular components. The communication device includes a portableinformation delivery module that has a display screen and associatedelectronic circuitry to provide at least partly without user stimulussignals for delivery of information to present on the display screen forobservation by a user. The information delivery module has a peripheralside margin and an electrical conductor carrying signals to which theelectronic circuitry in the information delivery module is responsive.The communication device includes an information input module having aninput device that is operable in response to user-produced commandsignals to which the information delivery module responds to transmitinformation determined by the user. The information input moduleincludes a housing having opposing major surfaces of at least one ofwhich includes an opening that is sized to accept placement of theinformation delivery module for releasable electrical and mechanicalconnections. The opening is defined by an inner boundary thatencompasses the peripheral side margin of the information deliverymodule when it is placed in the opening of the information input module.The communication device includes a connecting member positioned in theinformation input module along its inner boundary to provide areleasable snap fit for the information delivery module when it isplaced in the opening of the information input module. The communicationdevice has matable members associated with the information input moduleand the information delivery module. The matable members are configuredto cooperate with each other such that, when the information deliverymodule is placed in the opening of the information input module, thematable members are spatially aligned and, in response to a securingforce, assume a mated condition in which the information delivery moduleis secured in place relative to the information input module.

Additional aspects and advantages will be apparent from the followingdetailed description of preferred embodiments, which proceeds withreference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are, respectively, front perspective, rearperspective, front elevation, and side elevation views of a preferredinformation delivery module (or “puck”) configured to fit into adepthwise tapered opening in, and achieve matable connection with, anyone of a number of information input modules to create a variety ofembodiments of a modular multi-function communication device.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are perspective views of a modular multi-functioncommunication device shown, respectively, completely assembled, partlyexploded to illustrate a telephone input module embodied as aconventional mobile telephone form factor keypad having a circular,depthwise tapered opening sized to receive the information deliverymodule of FIGS. 1A-1D; and held in the palm of a user's right hand.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are perspective views of a modular multi-functioncommunication device shown, respectively, completely assembled; partlyexploded to illustrate a telephone input module embodied as a wristwatch keypad having a circular, depthwise tapered opening sized toreceive the information delivery module of FIGS. 1A-1D; and worn on auser's left wrist.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are respective top plan, side surface elevation,and side profile elevation views of the wrist watch of FIGS. 3A-3C in afolded state; and FIGS. 4D and 4E are respective inside and outsidesurface perspective views of the wrist watch of FIGS. 3A-3C in anunfolded state.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C are, respectively, perspective, front elevation,and side elevation views of an information delivery module of a modularmulti-function communication device, which module is embodied as anecklace pendant; and FIG. 5D is a frontal view of a user wearing thenecklace pendant around her neck.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are top plan views of a modular multi-functioncommunication device shown, respectively, completely assembled andpartly exploded to illustrate a personal digital assistant (PDA) or textmessaging input module embodied as a keypad configured for two-handoperation and having an arcuate, depthwise tapered opening sized toreceive the delivery module of FIGS. 1A-1D; FIGS. 6C and 6D arerespective front side elevation and left-hand side elevation views ofthe modular multi-function communication device of FIG. 6A; and FIG. 6Eis a perspective view of the modular multi-function communication deviceof FIG. 6A shown with the keyboard held by a user for two-handoperation.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are top plan and perspective views of a modularmulti-function communication device shown, respectively, partly explodedto illustrate a game pad input module configured for two-hand operationand with an arcuate, depthwise tapered opening sized to receive theinformation delivery module of FIGS. 1A-1D, and completely assembled andheld by a user performing two-hand operation of joystick/navigation keysand gaming buttons.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of a modular multi-functioncommunication device shown, respectively, partly exploded to illustratea telephone input module embodied as a vehicle dock equipped with aspeaker and configured with a circular, depthwise tapered opening sizedto receive the information delivery module of FIGS. 1A-1D, andcompletely assembled and supported by an articulating attachment armfixed to and extending from a vehicle dashboard.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C are perspective views of a modular multi-functioncommunication device shown, respectively, completely assembled, partlyexploded to illustrate a telephone input module embodied as a hand-heldmedallion in the form of an annular keypad having a circular, depthwisetapered central opening sized to receive the information delivery moduleof FIGS. 1A-1D, and held in the palm of a user's right hand and securedby a strap around the user's wrist.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C are perspective views of the inside surface of afoldable modular multi-function communication device shown,respectively, completely assembled in an unfolded state, partly explodedin an unfolded state to illustrate a telephone input module embodied asa flexible keypad having a circular, depthwise tapered opening sized toreceive the information delivery module of FIGS. 1A-1D, and partlyclosed in a direction to fold the inside surface on itself; FIGS. 10Dand 10E are respective inside surface and outside surface elevationviews and FIGS. 10F is a side profile elevation view of the modularmulti-function communication device of FIGS. 10A-10C; and FIGS. 10G and10H show, respectively, the design pattern and image camera portions ofthe outside surface of the modulator multi-function communication deviceof FIG. 10E completely closed with the inside surface completely foldedon itself.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a modular multi-function communicationdevice shown partly exploded to illustrate a mobile telephone keypadconfigured to receive an information delivery module of rectangularshape and implemented with touchscreen display technology.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D are, respectively, front, side elevation,rear, and bottom plan views of the information delivery module of FIG.11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a key-fob that cooperates with theinformation delivery module of FIGS. 12A-12D to provide it with a lossprevention feature.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a modular multi-function communicationdevice shown partly exploded to illustrate a personal digital assistant(PDA) configured to receive the information delivery module of FIGS.12A-12D.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a modular multi-function communicationdevice shown partly exploded to illustrate a multi-purpose audio playerconfigured to receive an information delivery module of a type similarto that of FIGS. 12A-12D.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a modular multi-function communicationdevice shown partly exploded to illustrate an image camera with imagetransmission capability and configured to receive an informationdelivery module of a type similar to that of FIGS. 12A-12D.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a modular multi-function communicationdevice shown partly exploded to illustrate an ultra-thin mobiletelephone keypad configured to receive the information delivery moduleof FIGS. 12A-12D.

FIGS. 18A and 18B are perspective views of an accent cover for theinformation delivery module of FIG. 11 shown, respectively, partlyexploded to illustrate how the accent cover fits over the back surfaceand side margins of the information delivery module and separately toillustrate the accent cover fitted with an open loop through which acord is laced to enable a user to wear the information delivery moduleas a custom-styled fashion accessory.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the information input module andpuck of FIG. 11, shown with alternative electrical contact members inthe confronting relationship they assume when information input moduleand puck 204 are mated together.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are fragmentary isometric views of, respectively, theinformation input module and puck of FIG. 19, showing spring-biasedcontact members of the information input module and concave contactmembers of the puck.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged isometric view of one of the spring-biasedcontact members of FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary isometric view of the contact members of FIG.20.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary isometric view of the interior of the puck ofFIG. 19, showing the end portions of the contact members fitted in agroove in the bottom side margin of the puck.

FIG. 25 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device that includes an information input module made ofelastomeric material that provides a hermetically sealed environment foran embedded numerical pad and a sealed container for the puck when it isinstalled.

FIG. 26A is a sectional view of the information input module taken alonglines 26A-26A of FIG. 25, showing the puck in position for insertioninto the information input module.

FIG. 26B is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view of a portionof the information input module of FIG. 25 holding the puck in placeagainst a floor and in sealing relationship with the information inputmodule.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are perspective views of a hand-held, foldable modularcommunication device configured as a bimodal operation “smart”telephone.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a hand-held modular communicationdevice that includes an information input module configured to house anextensible full-function keyboard to enable PDA functionality.

FIGS. 30 and 31 show, respectively, frontal and rear views of themodular communication device of FIG. 29, with the puck mated with theinformation input module and the keyboard in its extended position.

FIGS. 32 and 33 show frontal and rear views, respectively, of themodular communication device of FIG. 29, with the puck mated with theinformation input module and the keyboard in its retracted position.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are partly exploded isometric views of, respectively,the lower surface and the upper surface of a modular communicationdevice configured with a slidable printed circuit board (shown in itsretracted, unlocking position) that functions as an electro-mechanicalconnection and a locking mechanism for securing the puck in place whenit and the information input module are mated together.

FIGS. 36 and 37 are fragmentary isometric views of the lower surface ofthe information input module of FIGS. 34 and 35 with the slidableprinted circuit board in its extended, locking position and itsretracted, unlocking position, respectively.

FIG. 38 is a sectional view taken along lines 38-38 of FIG. 34.

FIG. 38A is an isometric view of the lower surface of the informationinput module of FIGS. 34 and 35 showing a slider switch for extendingand retracting the slidable printed circuit board.

FIGS. 39 and 40 are cross-sectional views of the information inputmodule and puck of FIGS. 34 and 35 shown in the confronting relationshipthey assume when the printed circuit board is in its extended, lockingposition and retracted, unlocking position, respectively.

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the information input module andpuck of FIGS. 34 and 35 implemented with an alternative slidable printedcircuit board assembly and shown in the confronting relationship theinformation input module and puck assume when the circuit board assemblyis in its extended, locked position.

FIG. 42 is a fragmentary view of a flex circuit holder, which is theslidable part of the circuit board assembly of FIG. 41, and a flexcircuit ribbon that electrically interconnects the flex circuit holderto a main circuit board, which is the stationary part of the circuitboard assembly.

FIG. 42A is an exploded isometric view of an information input moduleimplemented with a second alternative slidable printed circuit boardassembly.

FIGS. 42B and 42C are cross-sectional views of the information inputmodule of FIG. 42A showing a slider switch in a locking position.

FIG. 42D is a cross-sectional view of the information input module ofFIG. 42A showing the slider switch in an unlocking position.

FIGS. 42E and 42F are front views of the information input module ofFIG. 42A with a first housing section removed to show the slider switchin, respectively, the unlocking and locking positions.

FIG. 42G is a fragmentary isometric view of the lower surface of theinformation input module of FIG. 42A with the slider switch in a lockingposition.

FIG. 43 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device in the form of a telephone handset that includes aninformation input module configured to rest in a dock opening in acharging station and equipped to receive updated information for storagein solid state memory residing in the charging station.

FIG. 44 is a rear perspective view of the information input module ofFIG. 43 having in its bottom surface sound emission holes that passsound emitted by an audio speaker in the puck and in its bottom sidemargin an IR link window that provides an information downloadcommunication link to the solid state memory in the charging station.

FIG. 45 shows an exploded view of the information input module of FIG.43 and a changeable face plate that enables color or exterior designchange to facilitate quick customization of the overall look of modularcommunication device.

FIG. 45A is a perspective view of the information input module of FIGS.43-45 resting in a dock opening of a charging station that includes adisplay screen and a video camera for video telecommunication.

FIG. 46 is a partly exploded rear perspective view of an informationinput module in the form of an image viewing device configured toreceive an information delivery module of a type similar to that ofFIGS. 12A-12D.

FIG. 47 is a front perspective view of the image viewing device of FIG.46 having on its front surface a display screen.

FIG. 48 is a partly exploded perspective view of an information inputmodule in the form of a business phone dock configured to receive aninformation delivery module of a type similar to that of FIGS. 12A-12D.

FIGS. 49A and 49B are, respectively, partly exploded perspective andside elevation views of an information input module in the form of ahand-held, foldable, or flip, phone configured to receive an informationdelivery module of a type similar to that of FIGS. 12A-12D.

FIGS. 50A, 50B, and 50C are, respectively, partly exploded perspective,perspective, and frontal views of an information input module in theform of a health module configured to receive an information deliverymodule of a type similar to that of FIGS. 12A-12D; and FIG. 50D is afrontal view of the health module worn around a user's neck.

FIG. 51 is a diagram of an information delivery module of a type similarto that of FIGS. 12A-12D, and various information input modules toillustrate a modular universal interface feature in which the graphicalinterface of the information delivery module is dictated by thefunctions of the information input module with which the informationdelivery module is mated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of a mobile communication device combine thelatest in communication technology with established patterns of humanbehavior. Several of the preferred embodiments of the communicationdevice specifically described are those of a mobile telephone. Byframing the opportunity within the context of a market that had becomegreatly commodified and was rapidly fragmenting, applicant identified anopportunity to move away from developing yet another multi-functionmobile telephone. The design of the modular multi-function mobiletelephone embodies definitions of several user profiles, along withpotential use scenarios that range from individuals wanting to stay intouch at all times in a familiar way, to business professionals seekingto easily connect to the Internet and send and receive e-mail messages,and to teenagers wanting to customize in an instant their telephones toa desired look.

Applicants' conceptual exploration of technology, communication, andhuman behavior revealed certain interesting findings. Although mobiletelephones are becoming increasingly smaller, human fingers are not. Asa matter of simple practicality, the keypad has remained the largestcomponent of these devices. The keypad is also the most configurable andleast expensive component of the mobile telephone. Preferred embodimentsseparate the keypad from the rest of the mobile telephone components andprovide a flexible, functional, and configurable modular communicationdevice called “POD” that can fully and affordably address a user'sdesire for greater customization and optimization.

POD is composed of an information delivery module, called “puck” becauseof the physical appearance of its preferred embodiments, and aninformation input module, such as a keypad. The information delivery andinformation input modules are matable to each other. The puck is asingle base unit that can work with a touchscreen keypad or a number ofmodular keypad or other information input attachments. The puck canreceive information through the information input module as well. Withthe puck, POD addresses different use modes and aesthetic sensibilitiesof its users. This enables the user to change the look of the productaccording to personal taste and enhances the functionality of the deviceto fit the exact occasion and mode of use. The puck preferably containscommunication and display signal processing circuitry and associatedcomponents of the POD, including a display screen of interactive (e.g.,touch screen) or noninteractive type, energy supply (battery), and videocamera. Communication signal connectors or other devices are placed onthe outside ring or rear surface of the puck. The puck acts on its ownas the navigation key and provides on its screen menu (including anon-screen touch sensing keypad) user access to all functionalityincluding telephone, PDA (personal digital assistant), camera, clock,and MP3 music player. Navigation key actuators include mechanical keysor, more preferably, touchscreen function actuation areas.User-controlled navigation takes place on or in the vicinity of thedisplay screen, whether by hard or soft key actuation.

Functionality can be expanded by placement of the puck into otherdevices or by the use of input modules such as a keypad module thatenables the POD to be used as a conventional mobile telephone, PDA, MP3player, and gaming device. For example, using common flex-circuittechnology, interchangeable keypads can be encased and manufacturedinexpensively in many different shapes, finishes, and materials such asleather, fabrics, silicon rubbers, plastics, and metals. In certainembodiments, use in the puck of an on-screen touch sensing keypadenhances POD design flexibility by enabling use of fewer (by eliminationof the keypad module) or different functional controls in theinformation input module. Moreover, accent covers fitted over the backsurface of the POD provide another opportunity to readily customize itsappearance.

The modular design approach implements a compact, affordable,customizable, and highly functional solution that transcends use anduser differences while creating an iconic device.

Preferred embodiments of the POD transform the mobile telephone, textmessage, photographic or video image acquisition, music listening, videowatching, or video game experience by offering a modular multi-functioncommunication device that can be easily and affordably customized tomeet users' exact needs and desires through a variety of interchangeableattachments. POD is a flexible system based on a shared informationdelivery module or puck 20, a personable, compact embodiment of which isshown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D. Puck 20 preferably embodies aminimal, elegant shape (e.g., round, square, or rectangular) and fitscomfortably in hand on its own, can be worn as a fashion statementthrough jewelry such as a necklace (FIG. 5A) or wrist watch (FIG. 3A),or can be transformed by a number of other information input, keypad, ordocking modules (FIGS. 2A, 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 25,27, 29, 34, and 43) in many different forms, materials, finishes, andcolors.

With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D, puck 20 is an informationdelivery module that includes on its front side a display screen 22, onits rear side an image camera 24, and in its interior a power source(not shown), such as a battery, and associated internal electroniccircuitry (not shown) that provides signals for delivery of informationto a user without user stimulus, with user stimulus, or both. Internalelectronic circuitry includes communication signal processing circuitryfor receiving, transmitting, or receiving and transmitting one or moreof cellular telephone, image camera, FM radio, paging, personal digitalassistant (PDA), MP3, global positioning system (GPS), and electronicmessage signals; image display symbology and patterns; calendarinformation; or other communication signals presenting visual or audibleinformation to a user. The receipt of cellular telephone, video, ande-mail message signals and the display of image patterns (e.g., time ofday) are typically accomplished without coincident user stimulus.Control buttons 30 positioned on a top annular rim 34 at a periphery 36of puck 20 may be actuated by a user to set a display mode (e.g., clockface or decorative pattern), enable or disable certain functions (e.g.,transfer cellular telephone call to voice message), or control certainoperating conditions (e.g., control navigation through menu structure).Alternatively and more preferably, the user-controlled actions describedabove are accomplished by providing a touchscreen (implemented withcurrently available touch sensing technology) as display screen 22 andtouching by the user of function actuation areas of the touchscreen toselect the desired functional operation.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1D show puck 20 in the form of a disk having agenerally flat front surface 40 and a generally flat rear surface 42.Front surface 40 is of greater area than that of rear surface 42. Abeveled peripheral side margin 44 interconnecting front and rearsurfaces 40 and 42 is sized to mate with a complementary depthwisetapered side surface of any one of many information input moduleembodiments, several examples of which are described in detail below.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C show a modular communication device 50 thatincludes an information input module styled as a conventional mobiletelephone form factor keypad 52. Keypad 52 exhibits on its upper surface54 a conventional set of keypad buttons 56 and receives puck 20 in acircular aperture 58, as shown in FIG. 2B.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C show a modular communication device 60 thatincludes an information input module embodied as a keypad styled as awrist watch band 62. Wrist watch band 62 is made of a flexible,resilient electronic circuit board substrate material, such as Kapton^(TM) polyimide film manufactured by DuPont, which a user can configureto a desired shape and exhibits memory properties that retain theuser-configured shape. Watch band 62 exhibits on its outside surface 64a conventional set of keypad buttons 66 and receives puck 20 in acircular aperture 68, as shown in FIG. 3B. FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C showwatch band 62 in a folded state representing the shape assumed when auser wears wrist watch modular communication device 60. FIGS. 4D and 4Eshow watch band 62 in an unfolded, flat state, illustrating,respectively, its inside surface 70 and image camera 24 of puck 20, andits outside surface 64 with keypad buttons 66 and display surface 22 ofpuck 20.

With reference to FIGS. 2B and 3B, each of circular aperture 58 ofkeypad 52 and circular aperture 68 of watch band 62 has an inner sidesurface 74 of complementary beveled shape to that of beveled peripheralside margin 44 of puck 20. Electrical contacts 76 positioned on innerside surface 74 provide an interface to deliver signals to and receivesignals from corresponding electrical contacts 78 on peripheral sidemargin 44 (FIG. 1B) of puck 20 when it is installed in aperture 58 or68. Substituting infrared light, RF, or Bluetooth transmitter and sensordevices for electrical contacts 76 and 78 provides an alternativecommunication link interface for delivering signals to and receivingsignals from puck 20 when it is installed in an information inputmodule. FIGS. 2A and 3A show puck 20 installed in keypad 52 and wristwatch band 62 to form, respectively, conventional mobile telephone formfactor modular communication device 50 and wrist watch modularcommunication device 60. FIGS. 2C and 3C show, respectively,conventional mobile telephone form factor modular communication device50 held in a user's hand and wrist watch modular communication device 60worn on a user's wrist.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D show an information delivery module adapted tobe worn as a necklace pendant 80. Necklace pendant 80 includes puck 20with a recess 82 formed in its peripheral side margin 44 to receive andlock in place an ornamental stem 84. Stem 84 has a free end 86 in whichan aperture 88 is formed and sized to receive a necklace 90. FIG. 5Ashows a telephone number appearing on display screen 22 of necklacependant 80 to indicate the identity of the source of an incoming call topuck 20 configured to operate as a cellular telephone. FIG. 5B shows therear side of puck 20 where the aperture of image camera 24 is located.FIG. 5D shows a clock face appearing on display screen 22 of necklacependant 80 to represent one possible user selectable steady-statedisplay pattern and source of time of day information. Withdrawing stem84 from recess 82 is one of many ways of enabling installation of puck20 in, for example, keypad 52 or wrist watch band 62 to enable a user touse puck 20 in a different mode in accordance with the keypad moduleselected.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E show a hand-held modular communicationdevice 100 that includes a small-scale, full-function keyboard 102having in its top side margin a centrally located arcuate cutout 104,into which puck 20 can be inserted, and a set of keys 106. In thisembodiment, electrical contacts 78 on peripheral side margin 44 of puck20 are positioned to align with electrical contacts 76 on open-endedinner side surface 74. Full-function keyboard 102 is especially suitedfor use with puck 20 configured for use in response to two-hand useroperation as a personal digital assistant (PDA) or text messagingmodule.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show a hand-held modular communication device 110 thatincludes a game pad module 112 having in its top side margin a centrallylocated arcuate cutout 114, into which puck 20 can be inserted, and twosets of game control actuators 116 and 118. Game control actuators 116and 118 represent, respectively, joystick/navigation keys and gamingbuttons. Game pad module 112 may also include a graphics chip andstorage for video data. Communication device 110 is of similarconstruction to that of communication device 100 in that electricalcontacts 78 on peripheral side margin 44 of puck 20 are positioned toalign with electrical contacts 76 on open-ended inner side surface 74.Placement of puck 20 in game pad module 112 and programming of puck 20causes communication device 110 to operate in a gaming mode. Puck 20 canbe programmed to perform other functions, such as receive cellulartelephone calls, while operating in gaming mode.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show a modular communication device 130 embodied as avehicle dock input module 132 having in its top side margin a centrallylocated arcuate cutout 134 into which puck 20 can be inserted.Electrical contacts 78 on peripheral side margin 44 of puck 20 arepositioned to align with electrical contacts 76 on open-ended inner sidesurface 74. Vehicle dock input module 132 includes a keypad composed ofkeys 136 and a separate pickup/hangup button 138, all of which aresufficiently large to accommodate easy activation and numeric entry by auser during vehicle operation. Vehicle dock input module 132 is equippedwith a speaker 140 to permit hands-free operation upon initial placementor receipt of a telephone call. Vehicle dock input module 132 may alsobe implemented with GPS functionality and music transmission and storagecapability. An articulating attachment arm 142 secured to the rearsurface of vehicle dock input module 132 extends from and is fixed to avehicle dashboard 144, such as that of an automobile, to allow userpositioning of communication device 130. Vehicle dock input module 132could also be installed into vehicle dashboard 144.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C show a hand-held modular communication device 150configured as a medallion that is sized to fit in the palm of a user'shand and secured by a strap 152 around the user's wrist. An annularinformation input module 154 includes distributed around its periphery156 individual numeric keypads 158 that are readily accessible to auser. Annular information input module 154 has a central circularaperture 160 into which puck 20 can be inserted so that electricalcontacts 78 on peripheral side margin 44 of puck 20 are positioned toalign with electrical contacts 76 on open-ended inner side surface 74.Modulator communication device 150 is especially suited for use as acellular telephone.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, and 10H show a modularcommunication device 170 that folds to the shape of a wallet andincludes a keypad and input module 172 having a circular aperture 174into which puck 20 can be installed. Input module 172 could also be ofrectangular or square shape. Communication device 170 exhibits a displayscreen layout similar to that of FIG. 2A with puck 20 installed, butinput module 172 is made of the same flexible, resilient electroniccircuit board material as that of which wrist watch band 62 is made.Electrical contacts 78 on peripheral side margin 44 of puck 20 arepositioned to align with electrical contacts 76 on inner side surface 74of circular aperture 174, as shown in FIG. 10B. FIG. 10D shows displayscreen 22 of puck 20 and FIG. 10E shows image camera 24 of puck 20 on aninside surface 176 and an outside surface 178, respectively, of modularcommunication device 170.

FIG. 10C shows a curved direction arrow 180 indicating the foldingdirection of input module 172 to completely close inside surface 176 onitself and thereby cause modular communication device 170 to appear asshown in FIGS. 10G and 10H. FIG. 10G shows a design pattern portion 182of outside surface 178, and FIG. 10H shows an image camera portion 184of outside surface 178.

FIG. 11 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 200 that includes an information input module 202with a numerical keypad and a puck 204 equipped with a cellulartelephone, a flash camera, a microphone, and an audio speaker. FIG. 11is shown partly exploded to illustrate, with reference also to FIGS. 12Band 12D (described below), the matability of puck 204 with informationinput module 202, which has a rectangular opening 209 that receives puck204. Information input module 202 and puck 204 are each of rectangularshape. Puck 204 includes a peripheral side margin that is segmented intofour side margins—a top side margin 206, a bottom side margin 226, aright side margin 227, and a left side margin 231 (shown in FIG. 12A).Opening 209 is defined by an inner boundary (provided by side walls 237,241, 242, and 243) that is entirely closed and encompasses theperipheral side margin of puck 204. In other words, side walls 237, 241,242, and 243 frame the peripheral side margin of puck 204 when it isplaced in opening 209.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D show multiple views of puck 204 having athin, rectangular body with generally planar opposite major surfaces.Puck 204 has near its top side margin 206 a cellular telephone antenna208 and a Bluetooth short range radio link antenna 210. Puck 204 has onits front surface 212 a touchscreen display surface 216 that isimplemented with capacitive touch sensing technology, such as TouchPad™capacitive technology of Synaptics Inc., Santa Clara, Calif. Foraesthetic and functional reasons, display surface 216 preferablyoccupies as much as possible of the area of front surface 212 of puck204. Electronic circuitry, including signal control and processingcircuitry and operational memory circuitry, contained within puck 204enables cellular telephone operation in association with antenna 208 andan audio speaker 220 exposed in an opening in a back surface 222, neartop side margin 206 of puck 204. A microphone 224 is placed at a bottomside margin 226 of puck 204. Display surface 216 and audio speaker 220located on opposite surfaces 212 and 222, respectively, of puck 204promote the cleanliness of display surface 216. Such placement ofdisplay surface 216 and audio speaker 220, as compared with aside-by-side arrangement of them along either front surface 212 or backsurface 222, affords a reduction in overall length or width of puck 204.Reducing the length or width of puck 204 makes it more compact andthereby facilitates coverage by display surface 216 of as much aspossible the area of front surface 212 of puck 204. The electroniccircuitry of puck 204 provides operational function actuation areas ontouchscreen display surface 216. The electronic circuitry is alsocapable of providing a keypad image on touchscreen display surface 216to enable separate cellular telephone use from information input module202, if desired. Puck 204 holds a SIM memory card 228 for storingtelephone numbers and personal settings and a vibrating alarm 230functioning as a silent telephone ringing device. SIM memory card 228 ispositioned behind a battery 232 and is user-accessible from outside ofpuck 204 through a slot 229 in bottom side margin 226, and vibratingalarm 230 is positioned near top side margin 206. The presence ofBluetooth radio link antenna 210 enables use of a remote, user-wornmicrophone.

To accommodate placement in information input modules configured withdifferent communication signal device locations, puck 204 is equippedwith two sets of redundant, simultaneously operating infrared (IR)communication emitters and detectors, one of which sets associated withan IR link window 234 located in bottom side margin 226 of puck 204 andthe other of which sets associated with an IR link window 236 in backsurface 222 of puck 204. The redundant IR links ensure compatiblecommunication links between puck 204 and different information inputmodules, because the shape and style of each of them can necessitateplacement of the communication link window of an information inputmodule in one of multiple established locations. In the case ofinformation input module 202 of FIG. 11, IR link window 234 of puck 204is spatially aligned with its corresponding IR link window in a bottomside wall 237 of opening 209 in information input module 202. In thecase of an information input module that is configured to mate with puck204 but leave open its bottom side margin 226, IR link window 236 onback surface 222 provides the communication link. Examples of a puckmodule in which a back surface IR link window would be spatially alignedwith an IR link window on a flat surface region of an information inputmodule include a jewelry piece and a wallet of the types shown in FIGS.5A and 10A, respectively.

FIGS. 12B and 12D show shallow grooves 238 extending along the lengthsof and located generally centrally in top side margin 206 and bottomside margin 226 of puck 204. Each of the grooves 238 supports on itsbottom surface a linear electrical conductor. The electrical conductorssupported in the two grooves 238 of each puck 204 preferably function aspositive and negative electrodes for delivery of electrical power topuck 204. Electrical power is delivered to puck 204 by electricallyconductive rods 240 (only one shown) fitted along opposite side walls237 and 242 of opening 209 in information input module 202. Rods 240 arepositioned on side walls 237 and 242 of opening 209 to provide apositive, releasable snap fit into their corresponding grooves 238 ofpuck 204 when it is mated with information input module 202. In thisconfiguration, information input module 202 functions as a batterycharger or a conduit for charging current for battery 232 in puck 204.Rods 240 may also be adapted to function as an alternative data andcontrol communication link between puck 204 and information input module202. Rod 240 positioned along side wall 237 is configured to moverelative to side wall 237 in a direction transverse to the face of sidewall 237. Rod 240 moves relative to side wall 237 in response to anurging force applied to it from bottom side margin 226 of puck 204 whenpuck 204 is being placed in opening 209. For example, rod 240 positionedalong side wall 237 may be spring-biased (i.e., spring-loaded) or may bedesigned to inherently have some give. Rod 240 positioned along sidewall 237 is resilient such that, when it and its corresponding groove238 are spatially aligned, rod 240 snaps into groove 238. Rod 240positioned along side wall 242 may also be configured to move relativeto side wall 242 or may be stationary relative to side wall 242.

FIG. 12C shows a camera 246 and its associated flash assembly 248 housedin locations for operation through corresponding openings in backsurface 222 of puck 204.

A recessed on-off button 250 in puck 204 makes it compatible with thematable connection in opening 209 of information input module 202.Information input module 202 has a floor 252 with an opening 254 for oneor both of passage of sound emissions from audio speaker 220 and imageacquisition by camera 246 and its associated flash assembly 248. Skilledpersons will appreciate that pod 204 can perform certain functionsseparately from information input module 202. For example, if puck 204is programmed such that touchscreen display surface 216 presents anoperational dial touchpad, certain mobile telephone functions can beperformed by puck 204 apart from information input device 202. There aremany possible operational functions and design configurations, asindicated by the exemplary embodiments described.

Bluetooth radio link antenna 210 also enables implementation of a lossprevention feature in puck 204. The electronic circuitry of puck 204transmits a continuous signal that is received by a Bluetooth radio linkenabled key-fob 260 attached to a user's keychain, purse, pocket, orother personal item. FIG. 13 is a simplified block diagram of key-fob260, which is a battery-operated device equipped with one or more lightemitting diodes (LEDs) 262, functioning as a visual indicator, and anaudible alarm. Electrical circuitry 264 allows a user to turn on or offelectrical power to key-fob 260, adjust a distance control 266 to selectthe strength of the Bluetooth signal to correspond to a set thresholddistance from puck 204, and adjust a volume control 268 to select theaudible tone volume. (Adjustments of signal strength and tone volume mayalso be performed at puck 204.) Whenever the distance between key-fob260 and puck 204 (either alone or mated with information input module202) exceeds the user-set threshold distance, key-fob 260 generates oneor both of an audible tone with the alarm or a visual signal with LEDs262. In an alternative embodiment of the prevention feature, theelectronic circuitry can be placed in key-fob 260 causing transmissionof a continuous signal that is received by a Bluetooth radio linkenabled puck 204.

FIG. 14 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 270 that includes an information input module 272with an alphanumeric keypad and puck 204 programmed to operate as a PDA.Information input module 272 has its opening 209 sized to receive puck204 by a snap fit into grooves 238 and deliver electrical power and dataand control information to puck 204 by electrically conductive rods 240.To accommodate placement in information input modules of differentorientations (e.g., portrait orientation, landscape orientation), theelectronic circuitry of puck 204 is implemented with image displaycontrol including image rotation to provide portrait or landscape imagepresentation. Such image rotation enables puck 204 to displayinformation with its longer dimension in the vertical direction (e.g.,FIG. 11) and with its longer dimension in the horizontal direction(e.g., FIG. 14), as dictated by nominal usage of the information inputmodule with which puck 204 is mated. A signal delivered from the IR linkwindow in bottom side wall 237 of information input module 272 to IRlink window 234 of puck 204 provides an image rotation command that setsthe image orientation. This function may also be accomplished by way ofelectrically conductive rods 240.

FIG. 15 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 280 that functions as a multi-purpose audio player.Audio player 280 includes an information input module 282 that isadapted to receive a puck 284 of the same size and shape as that of puck204 with a touchscreen display surface 286 and configured to operate asa mobile telephone or a music player. Information input module 282 hasits opening 209 sized to receive puck 284 by a snap fit into grooves 238and deliver data and control information and electrical power to puck284 by electrically conductive rods 240. Puck 284 includes electroniccircuitry producing audio signals that are transmitted through asuitable communication link to information input module 282, whichhouses audio speakers 288. A user touches touchscreen display surface286 for music selection and actuation of other user-performedoperational controls. Information input module 282 includes certainuser-controlled command inputs, such as, for example, an electricalpower switch 290, a volume control 292, and a digital touchpad 294 toenable operation of communication device 280 as a speaker phone.

FIG. 16 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 300 that functions as an image camera with acquiredimage transmission capability. Communication device 300 includes aninformation input module 302 that is adapted to receive a puck 304 ofthe same length and width dimensions as those of puck 204. Informationinput module 302 has fitted to its back surface 306 a lens assembly 308,and puck 304 is configured to operate as a digital camera presenting onits display surface 310 an image to be acquired and stored. Informationinput module 302 has its opening 209 sized to receive puck 304 by a snapfit into grooves 238 and deliver electrical power to puck 304 byelectrically conductive rods 240 as described above. Information inputmodule 302 includes certain user-controlled command inputs, such as, forexample, an electrical power switch 312, camera shutter actuator 314,and lens adjustment control 316. IR link window 234 of puck 304 isspatially aligned with a corresponding IR link window of informationinput module 302 to deliver the user-controlled commands to puck 304 anddeliver the acquired image data to information input module 302 forstorage or transmission elsewhere. The delivery of the commands andacquired image data may also be accomplished by way of electricallyconductive rods 240.

FIG. 17 is a partly exploded perspective view of a modular communicationdevice 320 in which puck 204 configured to function as described withreference to FIG. 11 is mated with an ultra-thin information inputmodule 322 in the form of a keypad. Ultra-thin keypad 322 can be made oftransparent, translucent, or opaque material to customize itsappearance. Although it is about one-half the thickness of puck 204,ultra-thin keypad 322 has its opening 209 sized to receive puck 204 by asnap fit into grooves 238 and deliver data and control information andelectrical power to puck 204 by electrically conductive rods 240. Thereis no floor closing the bottom portion of opening 209. Keypad 322 holdspuck 204 such that its front surface 212 and back surface 222 extendbeyond the major surfaces of keypad 322 to provide user access to thefunctions on both the front and back of puck 204.

FIG. 18A is a partly exploded perspective view of puck 204 and an accentcover 330 made of fabric or other material to illustrate anotheropportunity to customize the appearance of puck 204, when it is usedseparately from an information input module. Accent cover 330 is in theform of a shallow, open-top container in which puck 204 is inserted withits four side margins and back surface 222 covered, except for anopening 332 for passage of sound emissions from audio speaker 220 andimage acquisition by camera 246 and its associated flash assembly 248.FIG. 18B shows accent cover 330 fitted with a loop 334 of open ring orelastomeric type that receives a cord 336 a user can place around his orher neck to wear pod 204 as a custom-styled fashion accessory.

FIGS. 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24 show, as an alternative to rods 240 ofinformation input module 202, segmented, spring-biased electricalcontact sets 400 that provide a data and control communication link andelectrical power to puck 204. Contact sets 400 also provide a positive,releasable snap fit into corresponding grooves 238 of puck 204 when itis mated with information input module 202. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectionalview of information input module 202 and puck 204 shown in theconfronting relationship they assume when mated together. FIG. 19 showsthe complementary shapes of contact surfaces 402 and 404 of onespatially aligned pair of, respectively, an electrical contact member406 of information input module 202 and an electrical contact member 408of puck 204. (Contact surfaces 402 and 404 are spaced apart (i.e.,noncontacting) in FIG. 19 for purposes of clarity only.) FIGS. 20 and 21are fragmentary isometric views of, respectively, information inputmodule 202 and puck 204 showing that each contact set 400 includes sixinherently spring-biased contact members 406 and each groove 238includes six concave contact members 408. Contact surfaces 402 and 404of their respective contact members 406 and 408 are of complementaryshapes. Contact members 406 and 408 are mutually spaced apart along,respectively, sidewall 237 and groove 238 so that contact surfaces 402and 404 of corresponding pairs of contacts 406 and 408 are spatiallyaligned and achieve a conformal fit when information input module 202and puck 204 are snap fit together. Contact members 406 and 408preferably carry standard USB (universal serial bus) signals.

A recessed slider switch 410 (only one shown in FIG. 20) positioned ineach side surface of information input module 202 has an inwardlyextending tab portion 412 (FIG. 19) to which a locking pin 414 ismounted to slide through an aperture 416 in side wall 237. Bidirectionalmovement of slider switch 410 along the length of information inputmodule 202 pushes locking pin 414 into and out of opening 209. Puck 204is provided with locking holes 418 in the groove 238 facing side wall237 of information input module 202 when puck 204 and information inputmodule 202 are mated together. Locking holes 418 are located near theends of groove 238 and positioned in axial alignment with locking pins414 so that slider switches 410 push locking pins 414 into theirrespective aligned locking holes 418 when information input module 202and puck 204 are mated together. Locking pins 414 fitted into lockingholes 418 ensure that puck 204 does not inadvertently pop out of opening209 of information input module 202 in the event of a user dropping orother imposition of mechanical shock to the assembly.

With reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, information input module 202 includesfirst and second housing sections 420 and 422 that when assembledprovide an interior space 424 in which a printed circuit board 426 ishoused. Circuit board 426 is used to receive keypad or other informationinput signals depending on the functionality specified. Contact member406 is secured to circuit board 426 at its side margin 428 in a mannerdescribed in detail below such that a finger portion 430 on whichcontact surface 402 is located extends through an aperture 432 insidewall 237 and into opening 209 of information input module 202. FIG.20 shows that contact members 406 of electrical contacts 400 arearranged in two subsets of three contact members 406 each that projectthrough different ones of two apertures 432 in sidewall 237. Apertures432 are spaced apart in sidewall 237 by a distance that wouldaccommodate placement of a standard miniature USB connector as anauxiliary data and control link.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged isometric view of one of spring-biased contactmembers 406, and FIG. 23 is a fragmentary isometric view of threecontact members 406 mounted to printed circuit board 426 at its sidemargin 428. Circuit board 426 set in interior space 424 is rigidlysecured to housing section 422 of information input module 202.

With reference to FIGS. 19, 22, and 23, each contact member 406 is aunitary article, preferably made of copper alloy, such as phosphorbronze or beryllium copper, plated with gold over a barrier metal, suchas one or both of nickel and palladium. Each contact member 406 isformed in three portions, including finger portion 430, a spring portion440, and a surface mount portion 442. Surface mount portion 442 hasthree legs 444 that pass through aligned holes 446 in circuit board 426and are secured in place by solder joints 448. Because circuit board 426is secured in place in interior space 424, finger portion 430 is urgedinwardly toward interior space 424 in response to contact with contactmember 408 when information input module 202 and puck 204 are matedtogether. Spring portion 440 biases finger portion 430 to applycompression force between contact surfaces 402 and 404 under thiscondition. A boss 450 depending downwardly from housing section 420extends through a slot 452 in finger portion 430 to prevent lateralmotion of finger portion 430 and limit its travel distance in extensionand contraction when puck 204 is, respectively, not mated to and matedto information input module 202.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary isometric view of the interior of puck 204showing the end portions of contact members 408 fitted in groove 238 inbottom side margin 226. With reference to FIGS. 19, 21, and 24, eachcontact member 408 is a unitary article made of the material describedfor contact members 406 and formed in three portions, including aconcave contact portion 460 positioned between mounting tab portions 462and 464 that fit into side margin 226. Mounting tab portion 464 extendsthrough side margin 226 such that a distal end 466 of tab portion 464forms a spring finger that makes electrical contact with an electricalconductor on the bottom surface of a printed circuit board 468 housed inpuck 204. Mounting tab portion 464 is depicted in FIG. 19 in solid andphantom lines to show by a comparative relationship the resilience ofdistal end 466 when circuit board 468 is, respectively, mounted in(solid lines) and absent from (phantom lines) puck 204.

Contact members 408 are preferably insert molded into groove 238 of sidemargin 226 to facilitate a possible hermetic seal around the terminalends of groove 238. An aperture 470 sized and configured to receive aminiature USB connector is formed in side margin 226 to provide puck 204with “backward capability,” i.e., electrical charging as well as otheravailable stand alone operational capability in the absence ofinformation input module 202.

FIG. 25 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 500 of a type similar to that of modularcommunication device 200, except the former includes an informationinput module 502 made of elastomeric material that provides ahermetically sealed environment for an embedded numerical keypad 504 anda sealed container for puck 204 when it is installed. FIG. 26A is asectional view of information input module 502 taken along lines 26A-26Aof FIG. 25, showing puck 204 in position for insertion into arectangular opening 509 that includes a rod 540 positioned on side wall542 to provide a positive snap fit for puck 204 in information inputmodule 502. Puck 204 has in bottom side margin 226 a connector 256 foruse as, for example, an earpiece jack in stand alone operation of puck204. Segmented, spring-biased electrical contact set 400 shown in FIGS.19-24 may be implemented in side margin 537 to electrically connectinformation input module 502 and puck 204 at its bottom side margin 226.FIG. 26B is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view of a portion ofinformation input module 502 holding puck 204 in place against a floor552 and in sealing relationship within information input module 502.Floor 552 includes a depression 554 that is spatially aligned with audiospeaker 220 of puck 204 when it is installed in information input module502.

With reference to FIGS. 25, 26A, and 26B, a preferred elastomericmaterial for information input module 502 includes silicone rubber orurethane. The elastomeric material covers numerical keypad 504 in itsentirety and thereby embeds it within information input module 502. Theelastomeric material also provides a hermetic seal around a connector560 (e.g., an earpiece jack), which when not in use can be plugged witha cap (not shown) to prevent moisture infiltration into informationinput module 502. A pliable overlap ridge or lip seal 562 extendinginwardly and around a rectangular opening 564 at the top surface ofinformation input module 502 contacts the perimeter of display surface216 to secure and seal puck 204 upon its mating with information inputmodule 502. Only display surface 216 of puck 204 is exposed aftermating. A thin or insert molded section 566 of depression 554 in floor552 in a location corresponding to that of aperture 254 of modularcommunication device 200 allows transmission of sound emissions fromaudio speaker 220 of puck 204 to a user's ear while ensuring that thehermetic seal remains intact around puck 204.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are perspective views of a hand-held, foldable modularcommunication device 600 configured as a bimodal operation “smart”telephone. For example, bimodal use of smart telephone 600 includes fullPDA functionality in an open configuration and simple cellular telephoneoperation in a folded configuration.

Smart telephone 600 includes a first module section 602 and a secondmodule section 604 that are pivotally connected to each other alongtheir lengths by a hinge 606. FIG. 27 depicts smart telephone 600 in itsopen configuration, which shows puck 204 spatially aligned for insertioninto a rectangular opening 609 in module section 602. Opening 609preferably extends, but need not extend, through the entire thickness ofmodule section 602. Electrical power is delivered to puck 204 byelectrically conductive rods 640 (only one shown) fitted along oppositeside walls 637 and 642 of opening 609 in module section 602. Rods 640are positioned on side walls 637 and 642 of opening 609 to provide apositive, releasable snap fit into their corresponding grooves 238 ofpuck 204 when it is mated with module section 602. Segmented,spring-biased electrical contact set 400 shown in FIGS. 19-24 may beused as an alternative to rod 640 fitted in side wall 637 toelectrically connect module section 602 and puck 204 at its side margin206. Such use of contact set 400 would eliminate a need for rod 640fitted along side wall 642 to be electrically conductive.

Configurable soft keys or dedicated specialty keys 650 and 658 arepositioned adjacent side walls 637 and 642 of opening 609 and, togetherwith display surface 216 of puck 204 when it is mated, form an innersurface 652 of module section 602. Module section 604 supports afull-function (QWERTY) keyboard 660 that cooperates with soft orspecialty keys 650 and 658 and puck 204 to provide complete PDAfunctionality. Keyboard 660 forms an inner surface 662 of module section604.

FIG. 28 depicts smart telephone 600 in its closed configuration, inwhich module sections 602 and 604 are folded together about hinge 606such that their respective inner surfaces 652 and 662 are in confrontingrelationship. Module section 604 has an outer surface 670 defined by atelephone keypad 672 and an ultra-thin electronic paper display surface674 manufactured by E ink Corporation, Cambridge, Mass. Telephone keypad672 and display surface 674 cooperate to provide a simplifieduser-interface for telephony when smart telephone 600 is beingtransported in its closed configuration. Electronic circuitry providingtelephone signal transmission and reception is preferably provided inpuck 204, when it is mated, or alternatively or additionally is housedin module section 604 to enable autonomous telephone operation. It isenvisioned that puck 204 would be routinely carried in smart telephone600 to make available on demand the full functional capability puck 204affords.

FIGS. 29, 30, 31, 32, and 33 are perspective views of a hand-heldmodular communication device 700 that includes an information inputmodule 702 configured to house an extensible full-function keyboard 704to enable PDA functionality. FIG. 29 shows puck 204 spatially alignedfor insertion into a rectangular opening 709 in information input module702. Electrical power is delivered to puck 204 by electricallyconductive rods 740 (only one shown) fitted along opposite side walls737 and 742 of opening 709 in information input module 602. Rods 740 arepositioned on side walls 737 and 742 of opening 709 to provide apositive, releasable snap fit into their corresponding grooves 238 ofpuck 204 when it is mated with information input module 702. Segmented,spring-biased electrical contact set 400 shown in FIGS. 19-24 may beused as an alternative to rod 740 fitted in side wall 737 toelectrically connect information input module 702 and puck 204 at itsside margin 206. Such use of contact set 400 would eliminate a need forrod 740 fitted along side wall 742 to be electrically conductive.

Opening 709 of information input module 702 has a floor 752 defined bykeyboard 704 in its retracted position and a battery 756 supplyingelectrical power to puck 204 and information input module 702. Aconnector 760 can be used, for example, as an earpiece jack. Soft keys762 positioned on an upper surface 764 of information input module 702enable user control of selected features of puck 204 when keyboard 704is retracted and thereby concealed in information input module 702.

FIGS. 30 and 31 show, respectively, frontal and rear views of modularcommunication device 700 with puck 204 mated with information inputmodule 702 and keyboard 704 in its extended position. Side margins 770and 772 of keyboard 704 fit into slots 774 located in respective sidemargins 776 and 778 of information input device 702 to enable movementof keyboard 704 to its extended, operational position and its retracted,concealed position. The back surface of keyboard 704 functions as alower surface 780 of information input module 702 covering the lens ofcamera 246 when keyboard 704 is in its retracted position. A microphone(not shown) and an audio speaker (not shown) are contained within thehousing of keyboard 704. Holes 782 and 784 in lower surface 780 allow,respectively, voice transmission to the microphone and sound emissionfrom the audio speaker when keyboard 704 is in its retracted position.Use of an additional microphone and speaker in communication device 700is necessary because a circuit board forming part of keyboard 704obstructs passage of sound from puck 204 to lower surface 780.

A push button switch 786 located on a side margin 788 of informationinput module 702 functions as an on-off switch and a camera shutterbutton when keyboard 704 is in, respectively, its retracted position andits extended position. FIGS. 32 and 33 show frontal and rear views,respectively, of modular communication device 700 with puck 204 matedwith information input module 702 and keyboard 704 in its retractedposition.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are partly exploded isometric views of, respectively,the lower surface and upper surface of modular communication device 800configured with a slidable printed circuit board 802 (shown in itsretracted, unlocking position) functioning as a locking mechanism forsecuring puck 204 in place when it and information input module 202 aremated together. FIGS. 36 and 37 are fragmentary isometric views of thelower surface of information input module 202 of FIGS. 34 and 35 withslidable printed circuit board 802 in its extended, locking position andits retracted, unlocking position, respectively. With reference to FIGS.34, 35, 36, and 37, information input module 202 has fitted along itsinner wall 237 rod segments 240 a and 240 b separated by an aperture 804sized and configured to allow an electrode-carrying end portion 806 ofcircuit board 802 to extend into and retract from opening 209. Rodsegments 240 a and 240 b act as a spring to snap and hold puck 204 inplace until slidable printed circuit board 802 assumes its extended,locking position. The placement of rod segments 240 a and 240 b oneither side of aperture 804 affords a thinner profile for informationinput module 202. Rod segments 240 a and 240 b may be electricallyconductive and may carry differential signals or signals with differentpolarities to provide electrical power to puck 204 and/or performcommunication operations. An alternative of using a single continuousrod above or below aperture 804 may be implemented with the consequenceof a thicker profile for information input module 202.

A post 808 extending from a surface 810 (FIG. 38) of circuit board 802and flush mounted relative to lower surface 812 provides user access tomove circuit board 802 between its extended, locking and retracted,unlocking positions defined by the ends of a slot 814. Post 808 has inits upper surface a depression 816 sized to receive a coin or other toolto assist a user to lock and unlock puck 204. Alternatively, instead ofpost 808, any type of switch that provides user access to move circuitboard 802 may be implemented. For example, a slidable switch 809 havinga tab 811 flush mount relative to lower surface 812 as depicted in FIG.38A may be used.

Aperture 470 formed in side margin 226 of puck 204 is sized andconfigured to receive end portion 806 of circuit board 802 in itsextended, locking position. When in the extended, locking position withpuck 204 mated to information input module 202, contact members 830 makeelectrical connections with corresponding contact members of a contactelectrode receptacle 832 (FIG. 39) positioned at and aligned withaperture 470 of puck 204. The contact members of receptacle 832 functionin a manner analogous to contact surfaces 404 of FIG. 21. A snug fit ofend portion 806 in receptacle 832 provides, therefore, a positive lockfor puck 204 in information input module 202.

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view showing the placement of printedcircuit board 802 within the interior of information input module 202.Circuit board 802 rides inside integrated guide rails 836 formed byassembled housing sections 420 and 422. An optional well 838 (shown onlyin FIG. 38) in slot 814 facilitates access by a user's finger. Anumerical key pad 840 fits in an upper surface 842 of information inputmodule 202.

FIGS. 39 and 40 are cross-sectional views of information input module202 and puck 204 of FIGS. 34 and 35 shown in the confrontingrelationship they assume when printed circuit board 802 is in itsextended, locking position and retracted, unlocking position,respectively.

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of information input module 202 andpuck 204 implemented with an alternative slidable printed circuit boardassembly 850 and shown in the confronting relationship information inputmodule 202 and puck 204 assume when circuit board assembly 850 is in itsextended, locked position. FIG. 42 is a fragmentary view of a flexcircuit holder 852, which is the slidable part of circuit board assembly850, and a flex circuit ribbon 854 that electrically interconnects flexcircuit holder 852 to a main circuit board 856 (FIG. 41), which is thestationary part of circuit board assembly 850. Flex circuit ribbon 854may include a polyimide film such as Kapton™.

With reference to FIGS. 41 and 42, main circuit board 856 is supportedadjacent and underneath numerical keypad 840 by housing section 420.Flex circuit holder 852 is supported by and rides inside integratedguide rails 836, as was described for circuit board 802. Flex circuit854 is attached to an end of flex circuit holder 852 and to an end ofmain circuit board 856 to electrically interconnect them. Post 808downwardly depends from flex circuit holder 852 to pass through slot 814in housing section 422. More specifically, flex circuit holder 852 snapsaround flex circuit 854 to provide rigidity and a way to hold flexcircuit 854 between guide rails 836 to slide in response to user appliedforce to attached post 808. Contact members 830 of end portion 806 offlex circuit holder 852 make electrical connections with correspondingcontact members of receptacle 832. A user manipulates post 808 to slideend portion 806 in and out of aperture 804 to lock and unlock puck 204to information input module 202, as was described for circuit board 802.

A second alternative slidable printed circuit board assembly 850′ isdescribed with reference to FIGS. 42A-42G. FIG. 42A is an explodedisometric view, and FIGS. 42B-42D are cross-sectional views, ofinformation input module 202 implemented with circuit board assembly850′. Circuit board assembly 850′ includes electrode-carrying endportion 806 mounted on a sliding printed circuit board 857. Also mountedon sliding printed circuit board 857 is flex circuit holder 852 that iselectrically connected to electrode-carrying end portion 806. One end offlex circuit 854 is attached to flex circuit holder 852, and the otherend is attached to main circuit board 856 via a connector 856′ toelectrically interconnect main circuit board 856 and electrode carryingend portion 806. Main circuit board 856 is stationary relative toinformation input module 202 and may include capacitive touch pads 858.

Printed circuit board assembly 850′ includes a slider switch 859 towhich sliding printed circuit board 857 is attached. Slider switch 859is provided adjacent to an edge 860 of a second housing section 422′.The length of second housing section 422′ is less than the length offirst housing section 420 so that when slider switch 859 is in a lockingposition as shown in FIGS. 42B and 42C, a first edge 859′ of sliderswitch 859 abuts edge 860 of second housing section 422′ and a secondedge 859″ of slider switch 859 is spatially aligned with an edge 861 offirst housing section 420. When slider switch 859 is in an unlockingposition as shown in FIG. 42D, second edge 859″ of slider switch extendsbeyond edge 861 of first housing section 420. As shown in FIGS. 42C and42D, slider switch 859 includes a tab portion 862 that fits through ahole 863 in sliding printed circuit board 857 (shown in FIG. 42A) andrides inside a guide rail 864 formed on second housing section 422′.

FIGS. 42E and 42F depict information input module 202 without firsthousing section 420, main circuit board 856, and flex circuit 854.Slider switch 859 includes two finger portions 865 having knobs 865′that engage with complementary rounded portions 866 and 867 of innerwalls 868 of second housing section 422′. Knobs 865′ engage with roundedportions 866 to help secure slider switch 859 in an unlocking position(shown in FIG. 42E), and knobs 865′ engage with rounded portions 867 tohelp secure slider switch 859 in a locking position (shown in FIG. 42F).

FIG. 42G is a fragmentary isometric view of the lower surface ofinformation input module 202 with slider switch in the locking position.As depicted in FIG. 42G, second housing section 422′ includes a beveledportion 869 (i.e., a finger grip area) to assist a user to move sliderswitch 859 from the locking position to the unlocking position. A usermanipulates slider switch 859 to slide end portion 806 in and out ofaperture 804 to lock and unlock puck 204 to information input module202, as was described for circuit board 802.

Alternatives to moving printed circuit board 802 into and out of itslocking position in receptacle 832 include, for example, a parallelorientation (side surface) slider post using either side cam action orrotary cam action to move printed circuit board 802.

Skilled persons will appreciate that the slider switch 410 and lockingpin 414 assembly and slidable printed circuit board assembly 850 are twoexamples of many techniques for locking puck 204 and information inputmodule 202 together.

FIGS. 42A, 42E, and 42F also show rods 240 a and 240 b in more detail.Rods 240 a and 240 b include slots 2400 sized to receive guide pins2402. Guide pins 2402 are secured to first and second housing sections420 and 422′ and allow rods 240 a and 240 b to move relative to firstand second housing sections 420 and 422′ in cavities 2404. Leaf springs2406 are provided that engage with projection portions 2408 of rods 240a and 240 b so that rods 240 a and 240 b are spring-biased. Leaf springs2406 may be made from any type of material such as, but not limited to,steel, rubber, foam, or plastic. The ends of leaf springs 2406 contactbottom walls 2410 of cavities 2404. As puck 204 is being inserted intoopening 209, rods 240 a and 240 b are pressed against leaf springs 2406causing leaf springs 2406 to bend near their centers. Leaf springs 2406provide resistive forces that cause rods 240 a and 240 b snap intogroove 238 of puck when groove 238 is spatially aligned with rods 240 aand 240 b. Rod 240 provided on side wall 242 opposite from rods 240 aand 240 b may be fixed relative to housing sections 420 and 422′ or maybe spring-biased as was described for rods 240 a and 240 b.

FIG. 43 is a partly exploded perspective view of a hand-held modularcommunication device 870 in the form of a telephone handset similar tothat of modular communication device 200, except that the formerincludes an information input module 872 configured to rest in a dockopening 874 in a charging station 876 and equipped to receive updatedinformation for storage in solid state memory 878 residing in chargingstation 876. An assembled handset of puck 204 and information inputmodule 872 placed in charging station 876, in addition to receivingelectrical charge, downloads to memory 878 information acquired by andstored in puck 204 during a time after handset 870 was last docked incharging station 876. FIG. 44 is a rear perspective view of informationinput module 872 having in its bottom surface sound emission holes 880that pass sound emitted by audio speaker 220 in puck 204 and in itsbottom side margin a connection link window 882 that provides aninformation download communication link to memory 878. A preferredimplementation of link window 882 is a set of, for example, six to eightelectrical contacts that correspond to the same number of spatiallyaligned electrical contacts of a set in dock opening 874. When handset870 is placed in dock opening 874, the sets of electrical contacts allowelectrical charging and information transfer between the assembledhandset 870, charging station 876, and memory 878, in a manner similarto that performed in common wireless house phones. Another preferredimplementation of link window 882 is a combination of IR link and metalcontacts for electrical charging and information transfer that providesan information download communication link to memory 878.

When it is docked in charging station 876, handset 870 typicallyfunctions as a clock-telephone that, when the telephone is not in use,presents on display surface 216 a seven-digit display of the time of dayor similar information. Charging station 876 includes a snooze functionbutton 884, which is akin to the snooze button found on a clock-radio,that enables a user to disable an alarm function after a pre-selectedtime has elapsed.

FIG. 45 shows an exploded view of information input module 872 and achangeable face plate 888 with holes 890 that fit over spatially alignedkeypad buttons 892 and a frame portion 894 that fits over an opening 896for receiving puck 204. Changeable face plate 888 facilitates color orexterior design change to facilitate quick customization of the overalllook of modular communication device 870.

FIG. 45A is a perspective view of information input module 872 restingin dock opening 874 of a charging station 876′ that enables videotelecommunication. Charging station 876′ includes all the features ofcharging station 876 described above, as well as a display screen 897and a video camera 898. Display screen 897 may be a flat screen displaysuch as a liquid crystal display (LCD). Electrical contacts in dockopening 874 are spatially aligned with electrical contacts ofinformation input module 872 when it is resting in dock opening 874 toprovide information transfer between charging station 876′ andinformation input module 872. Video camera 898 captures video images ofa user and transmits via a communication link established by hand-heldmodular communication device 870 information representing the videoimages to a third-party for display on a display screen of thethird-party. The video images captured by video camera 898 may also bedisplayed on display surface 216 of puck 204 so that the user can seeimages of himself/herself. Information representing video images of thethird-party may be communicated to the hand-held modular communicationdevice 870 via the communication link, and the video images of thethird-party may be displayed on display screen 897. Information otherthan video images of the third-party may also be displayed on displayscreen 897.

Skilled persons will appreciate that segmented, spring-biased electricalcontact set 400 shown in FIGS. 19-24 may be used as an alternative tothe electrically conductive rod functioning as a data and controlcommunication link and an electrical power connection in any of theother embodiments described in this patent application.

Skilled persons will also appreciate that, in each of the embodimentsdescribed, the information input module provides a frame structure(either open or closed) into which the puck is inserted with a securefit and from which the puck is removed. The puck and information inputmodules can communicate through IR, Bluetooth, and electromechanicalconnection, or any combination of them. Moreover, the puck can addwireless communication capability to any information or media device towhich the puck docks or attaches.

Embodiments of the information delivery module could be equipped withvoice recognition capability to respond to voice commands, enablehands-free communication, or both. Embodiments of the information inputmodule may contain additional power supply and processing circuitry toenable the modular communication device to perform or function in adesired manner. Moreover, providing additional simulation circuitry inthe information input module could enable it to perform multiple taskmodes (e.g., game mode and text messaging mode).

The visual appearances of the various, indefinite number of possibleembodiments of the modular multi-function device or POD humanize theinteraction between technology and the user. By recognizing that mobiletelephones and other portable communication devices are increasinglyinfluenced by fashion trends, applicant created POD modules in a rangeof shape, color, material, and finish choices that allow users toexpress their individual styles and fit into users' everydayenvironments. POD adapts to a user's lifestyle rather than requiring theuser to adapt to the limitations or unappealing look of technology. Themodular design approach creates a recognizable look and a trademark,while accommodating the user's desire for customization.

In a world in which face-to-face human interactions are beingincreasingly replaced by technology, a modular multi-functioncommunication device that enables an inviting, compelling, and personalexperience can make a profound difference in the user's everyday life.POD achieves exactly that profound difference. Unlike mobile telephonesthat confine the customer to one look, limited configurations, andfinite functionality, the customizability of POD allows optimumpersonalization, configuration, and functionality for different usersand use scenarios. A user can take his or her POD anywhere—from gym, tofancy dress party, to home, to office—and have it fit into eachenvironment with ease. By combining in one device all the user'stechnological needs, including telephone, PDA, camera, music files,clock, and games, POD simplifies the vast realm of technology optionsused in everyday life with one consistent interface. At the same time,POD becomes wearable technology that enables a user to make a uniquefashion statement and express personal style.

The POD design solution is more versatile and much less expensive thanany other currently available customization solution, resulting in anaffordable, multi-function mobile telephone or other communicationdevice that precisely fits the individual user's needs, desires, andaesthetic sensibilities.

FIGS. 46 and 47 are perspective views of a modular communication device900 that includes an image viewing device 902 as an information inputmodule. Image viewing device 902 includes on a front surface 904 adisplay screen 906. Display screen 906 may be a liquid crystal displayor other type of display known in the art. Display screen 906 may alsobe a touchscreen that is implemented with capacitive touch sensingtechnology. FIG. 46 shows puck 204 spatially aligned for insertion intoa rectangular opening 908 in a back surface 910 of image viewing device902. In rectangular opening 908, image viewing device 902 includes afloor 912 that covers display surface 216 of puck 204 when puck 204 isinserted into opening 908. Image viewing device 902 may includeconductive rods or segmented, spring-biased electrical contact sets, andpuck 204 may include corresponding grooves as previously described.Image viewing device 902 may also include a locking mechanism or lockingpin for puck 204 as previously described. Image viewing device 902includes a button 914 and button sets 916 and 918 that allow a user tocontrol various features, such as power on/off, volume control,brightness and contrast adjustment, and navigation between images. Imageviewing device 902 also includes on back surface 910 pads 920 thatprovide a grip surface for user handling.

During operation, puck 204 communicates display information to imageviewing device 902 so that one or more images appear on display screen906. For example, puck 204 communicates picture or video information toimage viewing device 902 so that a still picture or video images appearon display screen 906. Because display surface 216 of puck 204 is notvisible to a user when puck 204 is inserted into opening 908, puck 204communicates signals that would have been used to display information ondisplay surface 216 to image viewing device 902 so that the informationis displayed on display screen 906. In other words, display screen 906displays information in lieu of display surface 216 when puck 204 ismated with image viewing device 902. Display screen 906 has a largerdisplay than display surface 216 so that images appearing on displayscreen 906 are larger, and, thus, easier to see than they otherwisewould be if displayed on display surface 216. Image viewing device 902,therefore, may enhance a user's viewing experience of graphicalinformation such as pictures and video.

FIG. 48 is a partly exploded perspective view of a modular communicationdevice 1000 that includes a business phone dock 1002 as an informationinput module. FIG. 48 shows puck 204 spatially aligned with an opening1004 on a front surface 1006. Business phone dock 1002 includes ahandset 1008 and a base unit 1010 that includes a conventional set ofbuttons 1012, which enable a user to perform a number of functionstypical to a land line business telephone such as, but not limited to,number dialing, call forward, conference call, and hold. Information maybe communicated between handset 1008 and base unit 1010 through a phonecord (not shown) or through wireless communication. During operation,display surface 216 of puck 204 may display various information, such asa number of an outgoing call or the name and number of an incoming call.

When puck 204 is placed in opening 1004, the cellular telephonecapabilities of puck 204 establish a communications link between device1000 and the outside world—a land line is not necessary forcommunication. Thus, when puck 204 is mated with business phone dock1002, device 1000 becomes a fully functional business phone that usescellular telephone communication, rather than typical land linecommunication. Business phone dock 1002 may replace a conventionalbusiness phone handset and the multiple trunk lines associated with it.

FIGS. 49A and 49B show a modular communication device 1100 that includesa foldable, or flip, phone 1102 as an information input module. Phone1102 includes a first section 1104 and a second section 1106 that arepivotally connected to each other along their widths by a hinge 1108.FIG. 49A and the top portion of FIG. 49B show phone 1102 in its openconfiguration. FIG. 49A shows puck 204 spatially aligned for insertioninto an opening 1110 in second section 1106. A set of buttons 1112 isprovided on an inner surface 1114 of first section 1104 so that whenpuck 204 is inserted into opening 1110 and phone 1102 is in a closedconfiguration (bottom portion of FIG. 49B), buttons 1112 are in aconfronting relationship with display surface 216 of puck 204. Whenphone 1102 is in the closed configuration, display surface 216 may bepowered down, and when phone 1102 is unfolded (represented by arrow1116) display surface 216 may be automatically powered on to displayvarious information. Phone 1102 may include conductive rods orsegmented, spring-biased electrical contact sets, and puck 204 mayinclude corresponding grooves as previously described. Phone 1102 mayalso include a locking mechanism or locking pin for puck 204 aspreviously described.

FIGS. 50A, 50B, 50C, and 50D show a modular communication device 1200that includes a health module 1202 as an information input module.Health module 1202 includes an upper portion 1204 fitted with a cord1206 that a user can place around his or her neck as shown in FIG. 50D.Health module 1202 also includes on a front surface 1208 an opening 1210sized to receive puck 204. FIG. 50A shows puck 204 spatially aligned forinsertion into opening 1210. Device 1200 uses wireless communication,such as Bluetooth communication, to receive information from, andtransmit information to, one or more monitors 1212 worn by a user.Monitors 1212 measure various vital signs of the user, such as heartrate and breathing rate, and may measure other metrics such ashorizontal and/or vertical distance traveled. Monitors 1212 communicateinformation to device 1200, where the information can be processed,stored, displayed on display surface 216, and/or communicated to anotherdevice through cellular telephone communication. Health module 1202 mayinclude conductive rods or segmented, spring-biased electrical contactsets, and puck 204 may include corresponding grooves as previouslydescribed. Health module 1202 may also include a locking mechanism orlocking pin for puck 204 as previously described.

FIG. 51 depicts puck 204 mated with various different types ofinformation input modules 1302, 1304, 1306, and 1308 to illustrate amodular universal interface feature of puck 204 when mated withdifferent information input modules. Each information input module 1302,1304, 1306, and 1308 includes specific applications that relate to itsunique functions. When puck 204 is inserted into an information inputmodule, information is communicated between puck 204 and the informationinput module so that puck 204 can recognize the type of informationinput module with which puck 204 is mated. After puck 204 identifies thetype of information input module, puck 204 displays a graphicalinterface on display surface 216 that is dictated by the core functionsof the information input module in which puck 204 is installed. Forexample, puck 204 can automatically orient display graphics in alandscape orientation for information input modules 1302, 1306, and 1308and automatically orient display graphics in a portrait orientation forinformation input module 1304. Also, puck 204 may automatically displaygraphics unique to the functions of the information input module. Puck204 may display multiple icons representing menu items and may include alensing feature, in which an icon that is selected by a user appearslarger than non-selected icons. A user may navigate between icons tochange a non-selected icon to a selected icon. Through open sourcesoftware, new interfaces can be created for different types ofinformation input modules. Thus, by automatically displaying a graphicalinterface unique to the functions of the information input module, aseamless and holistic user experience is created.

It will be obvious to those having skill in the art that many changesmay be made to the details of the above-described embodiments withoutdeparting from the underlying principles of the invention. The scope ofthe present invention should, therefore, be determined only by thefollowing claims.

1. An information input module that is matable with a portableinformation delivery module to form a unitary modular multi-functionalcommunication device, the portable information delivery module includingdelivery module circuitry and a receptacle having a set of spaced-apartelectrical conductors communicating with the delivery module circuitry,the portable information delivery module having generally planaropposing major surfaces with outer boundaries that define a perimeter,and the portable information delivery module including a displaycommunicating with the delivery module circuitry to present informationto a user, comprising: a housing containing input module circuitry thatfacilitates communication of information between the information inputmodule and the portable information delivery module, the housingincluding opposing major surfaces at least one of which includes anopening that is sized to accept placement of the portable informationdelivery module, the opening defined by an inner boundary thatencompasses the perimeter of the portable information delivery modulewhen it is placed in the opening; an input device supported by thehousing and in communication with the input module circuitry, the inputdevice being operable to generate user-produced command signals fortransmission to the portable information delivery module when it isplaced in the opening; and a connecting member having a set ofspaced-apart electrical contact members and matable with the receptacleof the portable information delivery module, the connecting memberconfigured to assume, in response to a securing force, a mated conditionin which the portable information delivery module is placed in theopening in the information input module and the electrical contactmembers make electrical contact with corresponding ones of theelectrical conductors of the receptacle to thereby facilitatetransmission of the user-produced command signals from the informationinput module to the portable information delivery module, theuser-produced command signals including signals in which the portableinformation delivery module responds by producing information forpresentation on the display for observation by the user.
 2. Theinformation input module of claim 1, in which the connecting memberassumes the mated condition by movement to a position within theopening.
 3. The information input module of claim 1, in which theconnecting member moves between first and second positions to assume themated condition, the first position facilitating placement of theportable information delivery module in the opening and the secondposition representing placement of the information input module in theopening, and in which the connecting member in the second positionoccupies a greater amount of space within the opening than the connectormember occupies in the first position.
 4. The information input moduleof claim 1, in which the connecting member is part of a moveable circuitboard that is extendable and retractable, and in which the connectingmember is extended within the opening to assume the mated condition. 5.The information input module of claim 1, in which the set ofspaced-apart electrical contact members facilitates transmission ofelectrical power between the information input module and the portableinformation delivery module when the connecting member is mated with thereceptacle.
 6. The information input module of claim 1, in which theinformation input module corresponds to a game pad module, and in whichthe input device includes a game control actuator that allows the userto control video game information presented on the display of theportable information delivery module.
 7. The information input module ofclaim 6, in which the game pad module includes one or both of datastorage for storing video data and a graphics chip.
 8. The informationinput module of claim 6, in which the portable information deliverymodule is operable to function as a cellular telephone, and in whichplacement of the portable information delivery module in the opening ofthe information input module causes the portable information deliverymodule to operate in a gaming mode.
 9. The information input module ofclaim 1, in which an electrical contact member of the set ofspaced-apart electrical contact members is spring-biased so as toprovide a releasable snap fit for the portable information deliverymodule when it is placed in the opening.
 10. The information inputmodule of claim 9, in which the electrical contact member is a firstelectrical contact member positioned at a first location along the innerboundary of the opening and the set of spaced-apart electrical contactmembers includes a second electrical contact member positioned at asecond location along the inner boundary opposite the first location.11. A portable information delivery module that is matable with aninformation input module to form a unitary modular multi-functionalcommunication device, the information input module including inputmodule circuitry and a connecting member having a set of spaced-apartelectrical contact members communicating with the input modulecircuitry, and the information input module including an opening and aninput device communicating with the input module circuitry andgenerating user-produced command signals, comprising: a body havinggenerally planar opposing major surfaces with outer boundaries thatdefine a perimeter, the body sized and configured for placement in theopening of the information input module, and the body containingdelivery module circuitry to produce information for delivery to a user;a display supported on one of the opposing major surfaces of the bodyand communicating with the display module circuitry to present at leastsome of the information to the user; and a receptacle having a set ofspaced-apart electrical conductors communicating with the deliverymodule circuitry and matable with the connecting member of theinformation input module, the receptacle assuming a mated condition withthe connecting member in which the electrical conductors make electricalcontact with corresponding ones of the electrical contact members of theconnecting member to thereby facilitate transmission of theuser-produced command signals from the information input module to theportable information delivery module, the portable information deliverymodule responding to the user-produced command signals by producing theinformation that is presented on the display.
 12. The portableinformation delivery module of claim 11, in which the portableinformation input module includes one or both of an audio speaker and animage capturing device supported on the major surface opposite the majorsurface supporting the display.
 13. A modular multi-functionalcommunication device that is customizable in aesthetic appearance,operational function, or both, by selectable substitution of modularcomponents, comprising: a portable information delivery module includinga display and associated display module circuitry communicating with thedisplay, the display module circuitry producing information forpresentation on the display for observation by a user, the portableinformation delivery module having generally planar opposing majorsurfaces with outer boundaries that define a perimeter, and the portableinformation delivery module having a receptacle with a set ofspaced-apart electrical conductors; and an information input moduleincluding an input device that is operable in response to user-producedcommand signals to which the portable information delivery moduleresponds by producing the information for presentation on the display,the information input module including a housing having opposing majorsurfaces at least one of which includes an opening that is sized toaccept placement of the portable information delivery module forreleasable electrical and mechanical connections, the opening defined byan inner boundary that encompasses the perimeter of the portableinformation delivery module when it is placed in the opening of theinformation input module, the information input module including aconnecting member having a set of spaced-apart electrical contactmembers, the connecting member being matable with the receptacle of theportable information delivery module and configured to assume, inresponse to a securing force, a mated condition in which the portableinformation delivery module is placed in the opening and the electricalcontact members make electrical contact with corresponding ones of theelectrical conductors of the receptacle to thereby facilitatecommunication of the user-produced command signals from the informationinput module to the portable information delivery module.
 14. Themodular multi-function communication device of claim 13, in which themodular multi-function communication device is configured to function asone or more of a cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant, asmart telephone, an audio player, a camera, a gaming device, a businesstelephone, and a global positioning system device when the portableinformation delivery module is placed in the opening of the informationinput module.
 15. The modular multi-function communication device ofclaim 13, in which the portable information delivery module includes acontrol actuator in communication with the display module circuitry tocontrol operation of the portable information delivery module.
 16. Themodular multi-function communication device of claim 13, in which thedisplay of the portable information delivery module is a first displayhaving a first screen size, and further comprising a second display fordisplaying images for observation by the user, the second display havinga second screen size that is larger than the first screen size of thefirst display.